This semester at college I did a study on how the unhealthy dependence on cell phones affect a person. The studies show that there are huge physical and psychological issues linked back to this unhealthy dependence. I wanted to take a minute today to share my findings regarding psychological issues.
Potential Psychological Issues include:
- Self-Esteem
- Pressure/Stress
- Depression
- Bullying and Harassment
- Enslavement
- Work/Life Balance
- Other Problems
Self Esteem:
- Issues can arise from the constant social media contact.
- Having constant contact with other people can cause problems when others do not text you back or answer your calls. Things like this can be taken personally, even if it wasn’t anything personal and are linked to thoughts of not being good enough, not fitting in, or not being liked. All non-issues but the unhealthy dependence on cell phones is found as a clear link between the two.
Pressure and Stress:
- The pressure to be in constant contact with each other can cause some serious psychological issues. We know what stress does to the body and mind.
- Having the constant accessibility to your mobile devices can be stressful. You don’t get the break you need if you are constantly being interrupted by work and other life stressors.
Depression:
- The belief that everyone is always on their phone creates a false belief that if they do not answer your text right away or miss your call that they must be avoiding you or they do not want to talk to you.
- This is especially dangerous to younger generations as their self image can already be very fragile.
Bullying and Harassment:
- The incredible dependence on cell phones creates an easy access for bullies to harass and bully other people, even outside of social groups and school. Now the bullying can come home with the individual.
Enslavement:
- Anxiety can be caused by losing your phone, forgetting it at home or simply not having access to your mobile device. Studies show that people can actually have panic attacks when they lose their phones and experience extreme anxiety if someone has your phone but wont give it back. This becomes a problem when you cannot enjoy what you are doing if you do not have your phone.
Work/Life Balance:
- Having your phone on you all the time can cause a struggle to keep a good work/life balance.
- Its impossible to separate work and life when your phone blurs those lines by bringing home into your work, and your work into your home.
Other Problems:
- Unhealthy dependence on your phones can cause many other problems including:
- relationship problems
- communication problems
- even losing a job.
My Conclusion:
So all this to say, be careful how you let your phone dictate your life. I know for me it can be a struggle at times. But here are some tips that you can try to ensure that this doesn’t become the case.
- Put your phone away when you are social gatherings. It removes the temptation and allows you the ease of being able to interact with the people you are with.
- Do not sleep with your phone! Try putting it on the other side of the room or even in a different room all together.
- Shut your phone off! This is especially important when you are sleeping. You cannot get a full night sleep if you’re woken up by the phone buzzing or lighting up during the night.
- Monitor your time spent. Pay attention to how often you are using your phone. If it outweighs the time spend on other things than try taking a break, reading a book, or interacting with friends and family (in person)!
Share your comments, thoughts and tips in the comments below!
Nichole is a Social Media Marketing Manager, student, daughter and friend. She’s working on her Marketing Diploma and has a Certificate of Christian Theology. She is an avid coffee lover who enjoys a good movie or book. She takes great joy in organizing, scheduling, and volunteering. Her passion for volunteerism extends specifically to those who are hurting, whether it is emotionally, physically, or mentally.
Nichole is certified to provide Mental Health First Aid, which means she can provide immediate support and guidance in a safe environment, comfortably have a conversation about mental health related issues and offer professional and other supports. This does NOT make Nichole a psychologist, or a counselor. It simply gives her the tools to direct people to the help they need.
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Defying Shadows 